A Statement from Bishop Thomas Tobin

The Priests and faithful of the Diocese of Providence are reminded that the liturgical law of the Church clearly prohibits the presentation of eulogies at a Catholic Funeral Mass at any time during the Mass. The law does allow for the presentation of brief “words of remembrance” to be offered by one individual following the closing prayer of the Mass and before the Final Commendation. The decision to allow or not allow “words of remembrance” belongs solely to the pastor who is responsible for the oversight of the liturgy in his parish. The pastor must ensure that if “words of remembrance” are to be presented that they be appropriate and in keeping with the sacred nature of the Mass, both in length and in content. If the pastor cannot do so, then the “words of remembrance” must be omitted.